The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has urged mine owners and workers to strictly observe safety regulations after two miners were killed in an underground shaft collapse at Vigilant Mine in Kwekwe, the latest in a string of fatal mining accidents that continue to plague Zimbabwe’s mining sector.
Speaking to Great Dyke News ZRP Midlands spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said the accident occurred on 7 July at around 7:00 pm, when five miners were working approximately 200 metres underground. A block of earth suddenly gave way from the roof of the shaft, trapping the workers beneath the debris.
Three miners managed to escape, but Busani Nyathi and Proud Maphosa remained trapped. Their bodies were later recovered by police.
The tragedy comes as concerns grow over mining safety in Zimbabwe. Last month, Mines and Mining Development Minister Polite Kambamura revealed that 64 artisanal and small-scale miners died during the first quarter of 2026 alone, a 6% increase over the same period last year. More than half of those deaths—54%—were caused by ground collapses similar to the one at Vigilant Mine.
Government has since launched a nationwide mining safety blitz, warning that preventable accidents continue to threaten one of Zimbabwe’s most important economic sectors. Officials say the majority of fatalities stem from poor ground support, unsafe shaft conditions, improper handling of explosives and inadequate compliance with mining regulations.
The ZRP has reminded all mining operators to comply fully with safety requirements set out under the Mines and Minerals Act (Chapter 21:05), saying adherence to established safety procedures is essential to preventing further loss of life.
Investigations into the cause of the Vigilant Mine collapse are continuing.
